Building on Right Triangles - Trigonometry in the Real World

Grade Focus

Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12

Age Level

15, 16, 17

Subject

Math

Technology Integration Activity

Discovering the Internet, PowerPoint Presentations

Introduction

This lesson will focus on the real life applications of trigonometry. The students explore the principles and applications of trig via the Internet, and then create a presentation of their findings to the class. The students may work individually or in groups.

Prerequisite Experience

The students should be able to conduct online research and use a word processor. Prior experience with PowerPoint or other presentation software would be helpful.

Teacher Prep Time

About 1 hour.
Review the web resources on trigonometry and its applications in the Explore section. Review the PowerPoint tutorials on the Nortel LearniT site.

Project

The learners will use the web to conduct their research on the principles of trigonometry and how these mathematical facts are used in various “real world” applications. The students will choose one practical application of trig and explain it to the class via a PowerPoint presentation.

Assessment/Grading

Students will be evaluated on their understanding of trigonometry basics, the organization of their presentation, their basic skills with the presentation software, and their ability to demonstrate an understanding of how the mathematics are applied in their chosen scenario. A rubric is provided in the lesson plan.

Time Management Tips

Prescreen the online resources listed in the Explore section, and limit the students’ choice of trigonometry application to two or three categories. This will reduce the time needed for exploration and decision making, and focus more time on the actual application and how to present it to the class.

Have students work in teams to conduct research and create slides to combine into the final presentation.

To help with limited computer access during class time, supplement online resources with books from the school library, drawings from local business, or resources from a local technical college or university.